WASHINGTON, D.C.—Volunteers make significant contributions to public lands across the country. Between 1972 and 2019, more than 3.28 million people gave 141.1 million hours to the Forest Service. That time and service was valued at $1.85 billion. National Public Lands Day, falling on the fourth Saturday of every September, is the largest single-day volunteer event for public lands. This year, it happens Sept. 25.

Site managers are at the heart of every successful NPLD event. They are responsible for hosting events and overseeing everything from event planning and execution to post-event wrap-up. September is coming quickly, so start now.

This year’s theme is “More Ways to Connect to Nature.” While last year had everyone pivoting to virtual events, it also taught us some valuable lessons. Virtual events are a way to connect broader, more diverse audiences with their public lands. That’s why this year’s National Public Lands Day encourages creating virtual, in-person and hybrid events.

You can register, plan and promote your NPLD event using resources from the National Environmental Education Foundation website. Get your events registered today!